Does my child have dyslexia if they don't pass a reading screening?

Reading screeners are designed only to identify which students need additional help with learning the foundational skills in reading that are essential to becoming a strong reader. The screenings are not diagnostic and do not necessarily indicate that a child has dyslexia.

On the other hand, studies have shown that when children with dyslexia are identified early and given timely intervention, they can learn to read and avoid the all-too-common scenario where a child must first fall behind before getting intervention, and then spend all year trying to catch up.

The school must provide an appropriate intervention, which will likely address your child’s needs. If not, you can request a special education assessment to see if your child is eligible for an IEP or 504 plan.

For more information, see our full article What California’s New K–2 Reading Screenings Could Mean for Your Child.